Kulsum International Hospital

Myopia (Short-sightedness)

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Myopia usually starts in childhood and can get worse during the school years. It is easily corrected, and some treatments can slow its progression in children.

Symptoms

  • Blurred distance vision
  • Squinting to see far away
  • Headaches or eye strain
  • Difficulty seeing the board at school

Causes and risk factors

Risk factors include a family history, a lot of close work and screen time, and spending little time outdoors.

Diagnosis

An eye test by an optometrist or eye specialist confirms it.

Treatment

Treatment includes glasses or contact lenses. Special lenses or eye drops may slow progression in children. Laser eye surgery may be an option for adults.

When to see a doctor

Children should have regular eye checks. See an eye specialist if you or your child have difficulty seeing at a distance. KIH can guide you to an eye specialist.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.